Definition of: carbon

(kär′bən) noun
1. A nonmetallic element (symbol C, atomic number 6) found free as diamond, graphite, and amorphous carbon, and having the property of forming stable rings and long chains which are the basis of millions of organic compounds. See PERIODIC TABLE.
2. Electr. A rod of carbon, used as an electrode in an arc light.
3. A piece of carbon paper.
4. A carbon copy.
—adjective
1. Of, pertaining to, or like carbon.
2. Treated with carbon: carbon paper. [<F carbone <L carbo, -onis coal]